I'm starting to think maybe it can just go on indefinitely this way?
like ... maybe they're just giving the backers what they want. they don't really want a concrete product with concrete limitations that can be criticized, they want to enjoy the game development theater while fantasizing about the ultimate space sim that will let them do everything they want.
video games are already fantasy to begin with, right? so if you can sell fantasizing about being a space pilot, why can't you sell fantasizing about fantasizing about being a space pilot?
Not all backers are like that but it can last some more years probably. The biggest risk is probably engine obsolescence. And the realization that Squadron 42 may be truly nowhere, perhaps. I don't know if the true believers would also accept a drastic reduction in the production, it is part of the illusion that CI(G) is ballooning (with 500-600 persons working on it, apparently) which is maybe something that you may need to do at one point.
They're supposedly having a record year in funding. If the Calders, who heavily invested in it and have a 10%+ share, are really pulling the strings and smart they must making some good bank right now.